University students and academics who have been clamouring for freedom of expression and to be allowed to participate in organised activities will have to continue living on hope.

Higher Education Minister Shafie Mohd Salleh said today that the government will not review the 1971 Universities and University College Act.

In a parliamentary written reply to Liow Tong Lai (BN-Bentong), he said the Act does not constrain freedom in expression or student participation in youth organisations as long as this does not affect the peace, racial harmony or other conducts that breaches the laws.

Liow had asked the ministry to state whether the UUCA would be reviewed to enable more students to take part in youth organisations. He also asked about the steps taken to attract more students to participate actively in social activities.

The Act has been severely criticised by student activists and politicians for prohibiting students from actively taking part in political and other organised events unless there is a prior approval from the university authorities.

Stating that the government welcomed students participation in social activities, Shafie said wide publicity was given on the benefits of service through societies and clubs, while certificates were issued for student involvement in activities such as Mercy Malaysia's humanitarian relief operations for tsunami survivors in Bandar Aceh.

Participation in the Rakan Muda programme and activities sponsored by the youth and sports ministry - including the expedition to Mount Everest by two UiTM students in 2004 - are also encouraged, he added.

Later asked to comment on the minister's reply, Liow said students should be given the opportunity to participate in social activities, but would not say anything about their freedom to be involved in political activities.

Ridiculous remark

When contacted for reaction, national affairs secretary of Malaysia Youth and Students Democratic Movement (DEMA), Ginie Lim said the statement by the minister was not true and "ridiculous".

The Act is very clear in limiting the students' freedom to participate in out-of-campus activities, she said.

"The university regulations are empowered by the Act and the Act gives the university Vice Chancellors the absolute power to interpret the act," she added.